‘Bethenny’ nears full clearance

Show picked up by stations covering 97% of U.S. TV homes

The roster of new firstrun syndie skeins for fall 2013 is taking shape as the NATPE confab approaches later this month.

Telepictures Prods.’ yakker “Bethenny” has been picked up by stations covering 97% of U.S. TV homes. Daytime talker is hosted by ex-“Real Housewives of New York City” personality Bethenny Frankel and hails from Ellen DeGeneres’ A Very Good Production shingle.

“Bethenny” had a successful test run last year on a clutch of Fox O&O stations, which form the core of the show’s national launch group. “This series was an instant hit during its test, representing the most successful syndicated test in Fox’s history,” said Ken Werner, prexy of Warner Bros. Domestic TV Distribution.

Separately, CBS TV Distribution has greenlit daytime strip “The Test” hosted by Kirk Fox. Show from Jay McGraw’s Stage 29 shingle will use lie detectors and DNA tests to solve conflicts. “Test” has been cleared in 56% of the country, including 17 Tribune stations and 29 Sinclair outlets.